The first impression one receives of Chou is a powerful one: her determination and sincerity shine through. An heiress to a fashion empire (she is the daughter of Silas Chou), Chou had the brains and work ethic to carve out her own place in business before contributing to the family empire: she left a position at Citibank to helm her family brand management company, Iconix China, until selling the outstanding 50% to Iconix (USA) for $54.6 million USD. Iconix had aquired licenses to fashion brands in perpetuity for China, including Madonna’s own line and Roccawear, and also formed a JV with Karl Lagerfeld for the brand Karl Lagerfeld. Chou is also a big supporter of younger brands and culture, tirelessly supporting her friends and the emerging talent that surrounds her.